A jury has awarded $22.5 million in a wrongful death lawsuit involving a newborn who died after her mother’s employer refused to allow her to work from home. The case has drawn attention due to the circumstances leading up to the decision.
The damages were awarded to the estate of the baby girl. Her mother, Chelsea Walsh, had asked to work remotely because her pregnancy had been classified as high risk by medical professionals.
After her request was turned down, Walsh continued to go into the office. This was despite medical advice that suggested she should avoid doing so due to the risks involved.
The lawsuit states that when Walsh asked to work remotely, she was given two options. She could either return to the office or take unpaid leave, which would mean losing both her income and her health insurance coverage.
During the case, it was also claimed that Walsh’s husband reached out to a human resources representative at his own workplace. He shared concerns about how his wife was being treated by her employer.
According to the lawsuit, that HR representative then contacted a friend who was a vice president at TQL to raise awareness. During that exchange, the vice president is alleged to have said: “You just saved us a lawsuit.”
On the same day the request was granted, Walsh went into labor. This timing became a key point in the case.
The complaint also claims that the company used incorrect paperwork during the process. As a result, Walsh was effectively placed on unpaid leave rather than being given proper workplace accommodation.
According to the lawsuit, she was sent leave-of-absence forms instead of accommodation forms. Based on her doctor’s response, the company then ruled that she was unable to work.
While there, she gave birth to her daughter, Magnolia, who was still 18 weeks away from full term. The early delivery placed the baby in a very fragile condition.
The lawsuit stated that Magnolia “had a heartbeat, was breathing, and exhibited fetal movement,” showing that she was alive at birth despite the circumstances.
Following the trial, jurors concluded that TQL’s refusal to allow Walsh to work from home was a major factor in what happened. They assigned 90 percent of the responsibility to the company.
The jury awarded $25,000,000 in total damages. Since TQL was found to be 90 percent at fault, the company was ordered to pay $22,500,000.
“The jury found that TQL’s denial of that reasonable request led to the death of her daughter.”
Metzger also added: “This is a heartbreaking outcome for a young family.”
“We extend our condolences to the Walsh family,” said TQL spokesperson Julia Daugherty. “We disagree with the verdict and the way the facts were characterized at trial.”
She also added: “We are evaluating legal options and remain committed to supporting the health and well-being of our employees.”
